In a fiery rebuke aimed at the incumbent Kaduna State governor, Uba Sani, Bashir El-Rufai, son of former governor Nasir El-Rufai, has lambasted the current administration for its management of the state’s finances.
The critique comes in response to Governor Sani’s recent remarks during a town hall meeting in Kaduna, where he lamented inheriting a substantial debt burden from his predecessor.
According to Governor Sani, he was bequeathed a staggering debt of $587 million, along with N85 billion and 115 contractual liabilities from the previous administration. He cited these financial obligations as a significant hindrance to the state’s ability to meet its obligations, particularly in paying workers’ salaries.
However, Bashir El-Rufai didn’t mince words in his response, accusing Governor Sani’s administration of incompetence and mismanagement. He questioned the priorities of the current government, pointing to the construction of a banquet hall worth N7 billion while grappling with salary payment issues.
In a statement posted on social media, Bashir criticized the perceived lack of accountability, highlighting what he viewed as a disconnect between rhetoric and action within the administration. He also pointed out Governor Sani’s prior role as a senator, suggesting a level of responsibility in approving the loans now being criticized.
Before assuming office as governor in May 2023, Uba Sani served as the senator representing the Kaduna Central Senatorial District from 2019 to 2023. His tenure in the Senate coincided with the period during which the state reportedly incurred substantial debts.
The exchange between Bashir El-Rufai and Governor Uba Sani underscores the ongoing debate surrounding fiscal responsibility and governance in Kaduna State. As the discourse continues, residents eagerly await tangible solutions to address the state’s financial challenges and ensure sustainable development.
